In 1932, the United States celebrated the 200th birthday of George Washington, the first president of the country. To honor this special occasion, the U.S. Mint decided to create a new silver quarter dollar. This quarter would feature a portrait of Washington on one side (the obverse) and an eagle on the other side (the reverse). To design this new coin, the Mint held a competition in 1931, where many talented artists submitted their ideas. In the end, a sculptor named John Flanagan won the competition with his design.
The Design Competition
The U.S. Mint’s competition attracted various artists, each trying to create the best design for the quarter. The entries included different models that showed how each artist interpreted the challenge. These artist models were later auctioned at Stack’s Bowers Galleries in August, giving collectors a chance to see the creative process behind the coin’s design.
One prominent artist in this competition was Laura Gardin Fraser. She was recognized as the winner by the Commission of Fine Arts, but her design was not chosen in the final decision by Treasury Secretary Andrew W. Mellon. However, Fraser’s work was later used for a $5 gold coin in 1999, honoring Washington’s death, and again in 2022 for the Washington quarter series celebrating American women.
Notable Artists and Their Designs
Chester Beach
Chester Beach was another notable sculptor in the competition. He is recognized for designing the 1923-S Monroe Doctrine Centennial commemorative half dollar. His design for the 1932 quarter had bold lettering and a wide rim. In 2009, a plaster model of Beach’s design sold for $9,200. Later, when it was reoffered, it sold for $3,360. A negative plaster model, which shows the design in reverse, was sold for $384.
John Flanagan
John Flanagan, the winner of the design competition, created models that sold for $9,000. One of his designs was noted for its originality, and the eagle on the reverse was described as modernistic, with large wings and a strong body. In 2009, it was recognized for its unique features, which included an eagle holding fasces, a symbol of strength and authority.
The Artistic Challenges
The designs created by the artists faced some criticism. Curators noted that many of the models appeared cold and lifeless, lacking warmth. Cornelius Vermeule, in his book Numismatic Art in America, commented on the struggle the artists had in making the Houdon bust feel more human. Despite these challenges, Flanagan’s original designs showed more vitality than those that were eventually used.
Winfred Grandy and Others
Other artists also contributed their designs to the competition. Winfred Grandy submitted two positive plaster models that were painted silver to mimic the final coin’s look. Grandy graduated from Yale Art School in 1931. Additionally, there were models by an unidentified sculptor featuring Washington in civil dress and a detailed eagle’s head. These designs sold for $1,560.
Key Takeaways
The creation of the 1932 Washington quarter was a significant event in U.S. numismatic history. It showcased the creativity of various artists and the challenges they faced in designing a coin that honored one of America’s most important figures. Although some designs were not selected, they still hold value and interest for collectors today.
| Artist | Design | Sale Price |
|---|---|---|
| Chester Beach | Plaster model | $9,200 |
| John Flanagan | Positive plaster models | $9,000 |
| Winfred Grandy | Silver-painted positive plaster models | Not specified |
| Unidentified Sculptor | Washington in civil dress and eagle’s head | $1,560 |
Conclusion
The story of the 1932 Washington quarter is not just about a coin; it’s about the artists who contributed to it and the historical significance it holds. Each design reflects the creativity and talent of its creator. Even though not all designs were chosen, they still represent important moments in U.S. history. Collectors and history enthusiasts continue to appreciate the work and the stories behind these coins, making them a valuable part of American culture.
FAQ’s
Why was the 1932 quarter created?
The 1932 quarter was created to celebrate the 200th birthday of George Washington, the first president of the United States.
Who won the design competition for the 1932 quarter?
John Flanagan won the design competition for the 1932 quarter with his original design featuring Washington and an eagle.
What happened to the designs that were not selected?
Many designs that were not selected still have value and interest. Some were later used for other coins or were sold at auctions.